Psychiatrists in Azusa, CA
![Photo of Melissa Frost - Frost Mental Health, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53fab891-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frost Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Azusa, CA 91702 (Online Only)
Frost Mental Health is a virtual Tele-Psychiatry office! I am ANCC board-certified with over 20 years of experience in outpatient, and long-term inpatient psychiatry. Psych meds are not the only answer to support mental health. While I do provide initial consults for diagnosis and medication management for my clients throughout California, I also work-up clients with metabolic testing, neurotransmitter testing and hormone testing to identify the underlying causes for anxiety and depression, mood swings, insomnia and attention difficulties. My clients get amazing results and experience freedom from meds with my support.
Frost Mental Health is a virtual Tele-Psychiatry office! I am ANCC board-certified with over 20 years of experience in outpatient, and long-term inpatient psychiatry. Psych meds are not the only answer to support mental health. While I do provide initial consults for diagnosis and medication management for my clients throughout California, I also work-up clients with metabolic testing, neurotransmitter testing and hormone testing to identify the underlying causes for anxiety and depression, mood swings, insomnia and attention difficulties. My clients get amazing results and experience freedom from meds with my support.
![Photo of Clarito D Villanueva Jr, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/febbf096-c20c-4ba1-90c2-02ad3c26828b/1/320x400.png)
Clarito D Villanueva Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Azusa, CA 91702 (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry. I specialize in medication management for treating adolescents, adults, and elderly adults patients with, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and eating disorders. For people who suffer from debilitating mental disorders whose goals are to reduce their symptoms, experience pleasure and happiness, live and maintain a quality of life, my commitment is to empower you to be proactive in your care, optimize your progress, and achieve your goals.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry. I specialize in medication management for treating adolescents, adults, and elderly adults patients with, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and eating disorders. For people who suffer from debilitating mental disorders whose goals are to reduce their symptoms, experience pleasure and happiness, live and maintain a quality of life, my commitment is to empower you to be proactive in your care, optimize your progress, and achieve your goals.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed4e71e8-83d7-4f27-8992-45eeab892e32/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Covina, CA 91722
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Rachel Jumonville, PA-C , Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a2e85e3-59dd-4185-8e8e-60f3395087d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Mehr Karamat, MD, PMH-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f19f2dca-0dc6-4954-8958-cb1b97769ee7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ideal psychiatrist to treat patients who long for the time and space to be heard. Who want all their symptoms and concerns addressed, but never seem to find the psychiatrist who gives them the time of day. I take pride in my ability to adjust my pace to my patients' needs and to provide them a safe space to talk. Although as a physician I prescribe medications, I in no way, push medications on patients. I make recommendations and I collaborate with my patients and provide all the necessary information and tools to them to help them make the best possible decision for their mental health treatment.
I am an ideal psychiatrist to treat patients who long for the time and space to be heard. Who want all their symptoms and concerns addressed, but never seem to find the psychiatrist who gives them the time of day. I take pride in my ability to adjust my pace to my patients' needs and to provide them a safe space to talk. Although as a physician I prescribe medications, I in no way, push medications on patients. I make recommendations and I collaborate with my patients and provide all the necessary information and tools to them to help them make the best possible decision for their mental health treatment.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9732c074-e7e4-4f93-9a29-09f4342cdc95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Covina, CA 91724 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f18c7236-1177-4df4-be99-f38dbce2c4f5/1/320x400.png)
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pomona, CA 91766 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Patrick Gonzales, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40934c89-e95a-4625-a260-60ee37a0ebfb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Diamond Bar, CA 91765 (Online Only)
Mr. Patrick Gonzales is a qualified adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He earned his master’s degree in nursing from West Coast University. Subsequently, Mr. Gonzales received a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric nursing from Azusa Pacific University. He currently works at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
Mr. Patrick Gonzales is a qualified adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He earned his master’s degree in nursing from West Coast University. Subsequently, Mr. Gonzales received a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric nursing from Azusa Pacific University. He currently works at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
![Photo of Erica Taylor, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/640f5d26-7889-45ce-b3ea-2d531ed86990/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
![Photo of Terra Hart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ee27f10-cec3-4359-91a6-b585be7f03bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Terra Hart is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the diagnosis and medication management of psychiatric illnesses. Terra has been providing patient care for over a decade and has knowledge and experience in psychiatry across the lifespan. She received her Master’s in Nursing from the University of Virginia, where she graduated with honors and went on to complete the Master Psychopharmacology Program through the Neuroscience Education Institute. Prior to transitioning to private practice psychiatry, Terra worked at UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
Terra Hart is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She specializes in the diagnosis and medication management of psychiatric illnesses. Terra has been providing patient care for over a decade and has knowledge and experience in psychiatry across the lifespan. She received her Master’s in Nursing from the University of Virginia, where she graduated with honors and went on to complete the Master Psychopharmacology Program through the Neuroscience Education Institute. Prior to transitioning to private practice psychiatry, Terra worked at UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
![Photo of Mahmoud Aborabeh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebd1866a-38b4-4dcc-af0a-97021021d536/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mahmoud Aborabeh has 10 office locations, including in Gardena, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Northridge, Newhall, Culver City, Fullerton, Santa Ana, and San Francisco
Dr. Mahmoud Aborabeh has 10 office locations, including in Gardena, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Northridge, Newhall, Culver City, Fullerton, Santa Ana, and San Francisco
![Photo of Alysha Woods, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8732338f-5c8e-4a01-8533-78fadc5b26e2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alysha Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
![Photo of Sarah Tominello, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37c6f7ac-5f52-4c80-bb08-0c146e026291/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Tominello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covina, CA 91723 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and ADHD-certified clinical services provider. My specialties include ADHD, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders, with particular interest in addressing concerns specific to women and young adults coping with these disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and ADHD-certified clinical services provider. My specialties include ADHD, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders, with particular interest in addressing concerns specific to women and young adults coping with these disorders.
![Photo of Sen Liu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcf3fac8-58ff-41cd-bb3f-2eabe511d631/2/320x400.png)
Establishing connections with patients can be the starting point to explore issues causing mental struggles in us. My goal is to be the working partner with patients and work through these issues to alleviate both mental and physical distress. Areas of interests for me include depression, anxiety, stress and trauma related disorders, mood disorders, Asian American and immigrant mental health. I use both psychotherapy and medications as indicated in my treatment. Therapeutic approaches that I use include psychodynamic, behavioral, and supportive therapies.
Establishing connections with patients can be the starting point to explore issues causing mental struggles in us. My goal is to be the working partner with patients and work through these issues to alleviate both mental and physical distress. Areas of interests for me include depression, anxiety, stress and trauma related disorders, mood disorders, Asian American and immigrant mental health. I use both psychotherapy and medications as indicated in my treatment. Therapeutic approaches that I use include psychodynamic, behavioral, and supportive therapies.
![Photo of Sayeh Beheshti, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95084416-670d-4d5e-834f-95ecd66823cd/3/320x400.jpeg)
I treat children, age 8-19, who are suffering from the following: Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harm/Cutting, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive Disorder, Mild and Moderate Eating Disorders, Divorce/Family Problems, Personality Disorders, LGBTQ+ Related Issues. My therapists do individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry in a comfortable upscale setting in Costa Mesa. We accept health insurance and we make treatment affordable. We have telehealth available for children anywhere in the state of California.
I treat children, age 8-19, who are suffering from the following: Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harm/Cutting, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive Disorder, Mild and Moderate Eating Disorders, Divorce/Family Problems, Personality Disorders, LGBTQ+ Related Issues. My therapists do individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry in a comfortable upscale setting in Costa Mesa. We accept health insurance and we make treatment affordable. We have telehealth available for children anywhere in the state of California.
![Photo of Michael Feldmeier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442bf3bb-42b5-4b77-a27a-5584dbb4febb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c839a4a-ee2b-499f-901d-9f1a7083b61a/2/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bradbury, CA 91008 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Stephanie Adler, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feab5a2b-3c7d-4ab5-b0b7-d4f7ee20643c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Adler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Adler, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping people like you find balance and fulfillment in their lives. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you anxious, depressed, struggling with ADD/ADHD or OCD? You're not alone. My mission is to guide you through these struggles with empathy, expertise, and a collaborative approach to mental health care.
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Adler, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping people like you find balance and fulfillment in their lives. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life's demands? Are you anxious, depressed, struggling with ADD/ADHD or OCD? You're not alone. My mission is to guide you through these struggles with empathy, expertise, and a collaborative approach to mental health care.
![Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5ee7173-42d0-48b8-801c-42e0f45f9484/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pomona, CA 91766 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/428a2841-9a2b-4b5e-bf6c-99bb1c258951/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
See more therapy options for Azusa
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Azusa, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Azusa, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Self-Harming |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Health Net |
How Psychiatrists in Azusa, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Azusa?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.